Noise Measurement and Control for Timber Harvesting Machines

Abstract

Society's awareness of Safety and Health problems has forced industry to make a concerted effort to correct situations harmful to its employees. One area receiving attention today is the excessive amount of noise that some workers are being exposed to. Timber harvesting is an industry in which such a noise problem exists. This paper presents a review of pertinent past research results and gives a methodology for measuring and controlling noise in a timber harvesting environment. Pilot data was collected to substantiate validity of the methodology with results indicating that there was danger of hearing loss on nearly all of the machines observed. Most equipment manufacturers are aware of the problem and are trying to reduce noise on new machines. However, many older machines must be fitted with control devices if they are to be considered safe.